Dr. Tahl N. Humes owns and serves as medical director to Vitahl Medical Aesthetics in Denver, Colorado. She graduated with a BS from Indiana University, completed Medical School at Touro University in California, and Residency at Saint Joseph Hospital in Denver. She is a National Laser Trainer and National Spokesperson for Cutera® Lasers. Dr. Humes also trains physicians, RNs, and PAs from across the nation in advanced injection techniques of BOTOX® and advanced dermal fillers, including Juvederm, Restylane, Radiesse, and Sculptra. Dr. Humes has performed thousands of aesthetic treatments with lasers and injectables. She was invited by Allergan to participate in the Juvederm Experience Trials prior to the product’s release to the general public. In addition, Dr. Humes is known for her expertise in laser medicine. Dr. Humes and Vitahl are known for their cutting edge laser treatments, such as Pearl and Titan. She has been interviewed for her cosmetic medical expertise by news affiliates ABC, CBS, and NBC, and has served on expert panels for Cutera® Lasers at national presentations.
With the expansion of aesthetic technology and associated aesthetic procedures, there has been a parallel growth in office-based procedures being completed by non-surgically trained physicians. In many cases, this may be acceptable per their board certification, but in some cases, the envelope is being over zealously pushed, which has had an extremely negative effect on patient safety and surgery outcomes. Whether the motivation of the involved physician is financial, personal or professional, ethical consideration must be applied to physicians who are conducting procedures when they have had no formal residency or fellowship training. Clearly organizations exist that will train physicians to perform a specific procedure. These are almost always weekend courses that are not recognized by the physician’s professional board or their malpractice insurance carrier. More concerning is the fact that there is no selection process that allows only the most well trained and competent physicians to perform these procedures. This is in glaring contrast to the training of plastic surgeons, who are board certified with respect to cosmetic procedures.
Consider Dr. Jason Martin, a board certified plastic surgeon who has now joined the VITAHL family. His training consisted of 7 years of post medical school surgical training at some of the most prestigious medical facilities in the United States. Specifically, he completed a general surgery residency and plastic surgery fellowship training at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois. He then was selected for post fellowship training in cosmetic surgery at Manhattan Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital in New York City. He furthermore is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This is an arduous process that involves multiple tests and evaluations over a 3 year period after training, and also has a greater than 50% failure rate for first time applicants. When considering the disparity in training, it is hard to imagine why a patient would willingly choose a non-surgically trained physician for a cosmetic procedure. Even the desire to save a few dollars does not outweigh the risk. Come in to meet Dr. Martin and see how his expertise can help you meet your surgical goals.
DO YOUR RESEARCH
Previously, I shared a story about a 35 year-old Florida woman who had a negative outcome from surgery after she chose a good deal on liposuction without checking on the expertise of the provider. Had she done more research, she would have found that the surgeon had been disciplined by the state on multiple occasions. The other day I read about another woman who chose price over expertise, and again had a negative outcome. This fatal breast implant surgery was performed by a certified family physician. While this doctor was board certified, he was not a plastic surgeon, but he was performing cosmetic surgery. This story not only saddened me, but also reinforced the need for good medicine when it comes to cosmetic treatments.
As the aesthetic industry has grown, the view of cosmetic treatments as medical treatments seems to have become lax. There are physicians who are not trained in surgery performing surgery. There is BOTOX being injected in hair salons while customers are sitting in chairs waiting for their hair dye to process. There are lasers being purchased and run without the oversight of a physician. These are medical treatments with real benefits; but there are always potential complications, and the procedures needed to be taken seriously. The State Medical Board does not limit the practice of cosmetic surgery to plastic surgeons. In reality, any doctor with a medical license can perform surgery. It is then the responsibility of the physicians to work within the scope of their training. At VITAHL, we take training and board certification seriously. I am board certified in Internal Medicine. I am trained to treat medical conditions that affect any organ of the body, including the skin, our largest organ. I am not trained in surgery, but if I wanted to, I could purchase a liposuction machine, take a weekend course, and perform surgery. I feel this would be irresponsible on my part, so when we decided to add liposuction and surgery to the treatments available at VITAHL, I partnered with a board certified plastic surgeon. I feel that it is my responsibility to offer the best medical care to my patients, and personally, I feel this is achieved when cosmetic surgery is performed by a plastic surgeon.
So what can you do as a patient to make sure your physician is practicing responsible medicine? I recommend doing your research. The lowest price is probably low for a reason. Find out why someone is willing to perform surgery at prices well below the industry norm. Know who is performing your surgery, know how they have been trained, and ask about their clinical outcomes. In our industry update below, you can find out more about this topic as well as more about Dr. Jason Martin, our board-certified plastic surgeon.
Sincerely,
Dr. Humes
As the aesthetic industry has grown, the view of cosmetic treatments as medical treatments seems to have become lax. There are physicians who are not trained in surgery performing surgery. There is BOTOX being injected in hair salons while customers are sitting in chairs waiting for their hair dye to process. There are lasers being purchased and run without the oversight of a physician. These are medical treatments with real benefits; but there are always potential complications, and the procedures needed to be taken seriously. The State Medical Board does not limit the practice of cosmetic surgery to plastic surgeons. In reality, any doctor with a medical license can perform surgery. It is then the responsibility of the physicians to work within the scope of their training. At VITAHL, we take training and board certification seriously. I am board certified in Internal Medicine. I am trained to treat medical conditions that affect any organ of the body, including the skin, our largest organ. I am not trained in surgery, but if I wanted to, I could purchase a liposuction machine, take a weekend course, and perform surgery. I feel this would be irresponsible on my part, so when we decided to add liposuction and surgery to the treatments available at VITAHL, I partnered with a board certified plastic surgeon. I feel that it is my responsibility to offer the best medical care to my patients, and personally, I feel this is achieved when cosmetic surgery is performed by a plastic surgeon.
So what can you do as a patient to make sure your physician is practicing responsible medicine? I recommend doing your research. The lowest price is probably low for a reason. Find out why someone is willing to perform surgery at prices well below the industry norm. Know who is performing your surgery, know how they have been trained, and ask about their clinical outcomes. In our industry update below, you can find out more about this topic as well as more about Dr. Jason Martin, our board-certified plastic surgeon.
Sincerely,
Dr. Humes
HERE WE GROW AGAIN
We are only 1 month away from our 6-year anniversary. Thanks to all of you, we are busier than ever, growing like crazy, and loving every time we get to see each one of you. I wanted to update you on all of the growth you have made possible.
Staff - Over the past year we have welcomed three new staff members to the VITAHL family: Jessica, Hannah, and Kristi come to us with years of knowledge and expertise. Look for bios and introductions to the new and seasoned staff in upcoming newsletters.
Treatments - On a daily basis, the staff at VITAHL is researching the latest and greatest in aesthetic treatments. Over this past year, not only have we partnered with Board-Certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Jason Martin, but we have also added VASER Shape, our non-surgical body contouring device. Both have been great additions to VITAHL. This past month we added tattoo removal to our treatment menu. There is a stigma that tattoo removal is not for professionals, but most of us have a friend or coworker who has one of those "spring break" tattoos they regret, and now we can help them. We are excited to have the newest and most powerful tattoo laser on the market. What is even more exciting is that our new laser does more than just tattoo removal, it also treats sun damage, stretch marks and melasma. In future newsletters we will be bringing you details on all of these treatments.
Partners - VITAHL routinely partners with other businesses to introduce our patients to other services offered in Denver. Every few months we will be highlighting these partners in our newsletter. Check out our favorite Acupuncturists in the article below.
Thank you again for all you do for us. We would not be growing if it were not for our amazing and loyal patients. For those of you who have voted for us on Denver's A List, we greatly appreciate it! For those of you who haven't, it is not too late. There is still time to vote us the number 1 'Medical Spa' in Denver. Click Here
Sincerely,
Dr. Humes
Staff - Over the past year we have welcomed three new staff members to the VITAHL family: Jessica, Hannah, and Kristi come to us with years of knowledge and expertise. Look for bios and introductions to the new and seasoned staff in upcoming newsletters.
Treatments - On a daily basis, the staff at VITAHL is researching the latest and greatest in aesthetic treatments. Over this past year, not only have we partnered with Board-Certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Jason Martin, but we have also added VASER Shape, our non-surgical body contouring device. Both have been great additions to VITAHL. This past month we added tattoo removal to our treatment menu. There is a stigma that tattoo removal is not for professionals, but most of us have a friend or coworker who has one of those "spring break" tattoos they regret, and now we can help them. We are excited to have the newest and most powerful tattoo laser on the market. What is even more exciting is that our new laser does more than just tattoo removal, it also treats sun damage, stretch marks and melasma. In future newsletters we will be bringing you details on all of these treatments.
Partners - VITAHL routinely partners with other businesses to introduce our patients to other services offered in Denver. Every few months we will be highlighting these partners in our newsletter. Check out our favorite Acupuncturists in the article below.
Thank you again for all you do for us. We would not be growing if it were not for our amazing and loyal patients. For those of you who have voted for us on Denver's A List, we greatly appreciate it! For those of you who haven't, it is not too late. There is still time to vote us the number 1 'Medical Spa' in Denver. Click Here
Sincerely,
Dr. Humes
Does this sound familiar? "Is it my eyes that make look so tired and worn out"? This is a common question we hear everyday. Droopy upper eyelids and baggy lower eyelids are a big problem for many men and women. These problems can really contribute to an aged appearance. Although many office-based nonsurgical treatments exist that improve the appearance of the eyelids, plastic surgery is the definitive answer. A blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) removes the excess skin and fat around the eye, resulting in a rejuvenated and natural appearance. These procedures are completed in the office and have minimal downtime (5 to 7 days).
Often, worsening droopiness of the upper eyelid is also related to heaviness of the eyebrows. Eyebrow drooping is very common and is difficult to prevent. In extreme cases, the eyebrow droops to the level of the eyelids, and subsequently can obstruct the vision in the upward gaze. If you want to re-define your brow shape and open up the look of your eyes, a brow lift is often the best option. Most brow lifts are completed endoscopically, utilizing small incisions in the hairline to reposition the eyebrow. This procedure is completed in an operative facility and the down time is one week to 10 days. This procedure can also be combined with a blepharoplasty of the upper and/or lower eyelids.
Ultimately, cosmetic eyelid surgery is about reversing the structural changes that occur around the eyes with aging. The muscles are repositioned, excess fat is removed or transposed and the skin is reduced and reinforced. The first step to a permanent solution to your droopy upper eyelids or bulging lower eyelids is to make an appointment for a consultation. Come in and we'll talk about what's best to achieve the outcome you desire.
Often, worsening droopiness of the upper eyelid is also related to heaviness of the eyebrows. Eyebrow drooping is very common and is difficult to prevent. In extreme cases, the eyebrow droops to the level of the eyelids, and subsequently can obstruct the vision in the upward gaze. If you want to re-define your brow shape and open up the look of your eyes, a brow lift is often the best option. Most brow lifts are completed endoscopically, utilizing small incisions in the hairline to reposition the eyebrow. This procedure is completed in an operative facility and the down time is one week to 10 days. This procedure can also be combined with a blepharoplasty of the upper and/or lower eyelids.
Ultimately, cosmetic eyelid surgery is about reversing the structural changes that occur around the eyes with aging. The muscles are repositioned, excess fat is removed or transposed and the skin is reduced and reinforced. The first step to a permanent solution to your droopy upper eyelids or bulging lower eyelids is to make an appointment for a consultation. Come in and we'll talk about what's best to achieve the outcome you desire.
EYE WANTS
The eyes are a focal point of the face. Unfortunately, they are also one of the areas to succumb to aging. Many small lines around the eyes (the so-called "crow's feet"), can be reduced with regular Botox injections. Other "eye wants" such as getting rid of droopy brows or under-eye bags will need a combination of treatments for the best results.
Tweezing and waxing can only do so much. If your brows need a little lift, we recommend Botox injections. Botox weakens the muscles in the forehead that pull on the brow line, lifting and elevating it back to a more desirable position. If your brows are descending over the upper eyelids, you may be a candidate for a brow lift. Refer to the Industry Buzz article below for surgical options from Dr. Martin.
Maybe your concern is tired and baggy under-eyes? At VITAHL, we can treat under-eye bags with Radiesse and Juvederm, as well as with micro-fat-grafting, to banish the appearance of the bags. Fillers and fat injected into the hollows will replace the volume loss that happens with age. We're experienced at injecting into this orbital area, so you can be confident that you'll get the desired outcome. To permanently get rid of bags, you may need blepharoplasty, which is explained below by Dr. Martin, our on-staff plastic surgeon.
For day-to-day maintenance of the delicate eye area, we have several topical treatment options at VITAHL, including YOUTH Eye Complex, which smooths, hydrates, and reduces puffiness and dark circles. Ask your clinician at VITAHL to recommend what product is best for your skin.
Keep your eyes looking as young as the rest of you with easy, in-house treatments at VITAHL.
Sincerely,
Dr. Humes
Tweezing and waxing can only do so much. If your brows need a little lift, we recommend Botox injections. Botox weakens the muscles in the forehead that pull on the brow line, lifting and elevating it back to a more desirable position. If your brows are descending over the upper eyelids, you may be a candidate for a brow lift. Refer to the Industry Buzz article below for surgical options from Dr. Martin.
Maybe your concern is tired and baggy under-eyes? At VITAHL, we can treat under-eye bags with Radiesse and Juvederm, as well as with micro-fat-grafting, to banish the appearance of the bags. Fillers and fat injected into the hollows will replace the volume loss that happens with age. We're experienced at injecting into this orbital area, so you can be confident that you'll get the desired outcome. To permanently get rid of bags, you may need blepharoplasty, which is explained below by Dr. Martin, our on-staff plastic surgeon.
For day-to-day maintenance of the delicate eye area, we have several topical treatment options at VITAHL, including YOUTH Eye Complex, which smooths, hydrates, and reduces puffiness and dark circles. Ask your clinician at VITAHL to recommend what product is best for your skin.
Keep your eyes looking as young as the rest of you with easy, in-house treatments at VITAHL.
Sincerely,
Dr. Humes
Improving Body Contour or Achieving Body Enhancement
We all have problem areas of the body that we would like to improve. Fortunately, many options exist for improving body contour or achieving body enhancement. The trick is finding the right procedure or procedures for your needs.
Much can be done surgically to enhance the appearance of your breasts. By adding volume with breast implants, a permanent improvement in breast shape and proportion is easily obtained. Achieving a natural result that is appealing with or without clothing is critical, and should be the focus of the surgeon and the patient. When considering implants, we focus on four key areas: the type, shape, feel and placement of the implant. One solution does not fit all! Saline and silicone implants are the two most common options, and there are pros and cons to each. Silicone provides a more natural feel, but saline implants require less monitoring. More recently, we have also begun to improve breast shape with fat transfer procedures, shaping the breasts with fat from the patient’s love handles or abdomen.
Tummy tucks are transformative, easily changing your abdomen from ordinary to extraordinary in one procedure. Just as with breast augmentation, no one solution is right for everyone. You may want a traditional tummy tuck, where the area above the belly button and down to the bikini line is corrected. This results in the tightest and firmest look. Or, if you prefer, we can improve the area just below the belly button with a mini-tuck. If you also want to get rid of love handles or lower back fat, we often combine a tummy tuck with one of the new generation liposuction procedures (Vaser or SmartLipo). Ultimately, these procedures drastically improve the appearance of the trunk (waist, abdomen and pubic area), and in some cases even tighten the muscle layer of the abdomen.
With only a few hours in the office or operating room and with manageable downtime, we are able to transform those problem areas of your body. Call today for an appointment with Dr. Martin to discuss your body contouring and enhancement options.
Much can be done surgically to enhance the appearance of your breasts. By adding volume with breast implants, a permanent improvement in breast shape and proportion is easily obtained. Achieving a natural result that is appealing with or without clothing is critical, and should be the focus of the surgeon and the patient. When considering implants, we focus on four key areas: the type, shape, feel and placement of the implant. One solution does not fit all! Saline and silicone implants are the two most common options, and there are pros and cons to each. Silicone provides a more natural feel, but saline implants require less monitoring. More recently, we have also begun to improve breast shape with fat transfer procedures, shaping the breasts with fat from the patient’s love handles or abdomen.
Tummy tucks are transformative, easily changing your abdomen from ordinary to extraordinary in one procedure. Just as with breast augmentation, no one solution is right for everyone. You may want a traditional tummy tuck, where the area above the belly button and down to the bikini line is corrected. This results in the tightest and firmest look. Or, if you prefer, we can improve the area just below the belly button with a mini-tuck. If you also want to get rid of love handles or lower back fat, we often combine a tummy tuck with one of the new generation liposuction procedures (Vaser or SmartLipo). Ultimately, these procedures drastically improve the appearance of the trunk (waist, abdomen and pubic area), and in some cases even tighten the muscle layer of the abdomen.
With only a few hours in the office or operating room and with manageable downtime, we are able to transform those problem areas of your body. Call today for an appointment with Dr. Martin to discuss your body contouring and enhancement options.
SUMMERTIME IS BODY TIME
After a long winter and a chilly spring, it's finally heating up outside, and that means fewer clothes and more pool time. Getting our bodies ready for summer is at the top of almost everyone's to-do list. At VITAHL, we have some great body solutions, both surgical and non-surgical, that can help you get in shape for summer fun. You can tackle that unwanted fat with one or a combination of treatments:
VASER Lipo and SmartLipo remove fat from the inside, without the harsher techniques required by traditional liposuction. These procedures are performed under local anesthesia in our office, and most patients are back to their normal routines after a few days.
Not ready for surgery, but still want to get bikini ready? VASER Shape uses ultrasound technology to contour your body from the outside, breaking down fat tissue. This fat is then absorbed by your body and excreted naturally.
Tired of cellulite? Try SmoothShapes, a treatment that rejuvenates collagen and improves the appearance of dimpled skin. This is a painless procedure that uses contoured rollers and vacuum massage.
Want it all? You can combine SmartLipo, VASER Lipo, VASER Shape and SmoothShapes in a multitude of ways to get the best outcome for your body- shaping desires. Or, if you're looking for a more dramatic change, such as a breast augmentation or tummy tuck, schedule a consultation with our on-staff, board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Jason Martin. Please call our office today at 303.388.7380 for a consultation to help you decide which body treatment is right for you.
Sincerely,
Dr. Humes
VASER Lipo and SmartLipo remove fat from the inside, without the harsher techniques required by traditional liposuction. These procedures are performed under local anesthesia in our office, and most patients are back to their normal routines after a few days.
Not ready for surgery, but still want to get bikini ready? VASER Shape uses ultrasound technology to contour your body from the outside, breaking down fat tissue. This fat is then absorbed by your body and excreted naturally.
Tired of cellulite? Try SmoothShapes, a treatment that rejuvenates collagen and improves the appearance of dimpled skin. This is a painless procedure that uses contoured rollers and vacuum massage.
Want it all? You can combine SmartLipo, VASER Lipo, VASER Shape and SmoothShapes in a multitude of ways to get the best outcome for your body- shaping desires. Or, if you're looking for a more dramatic change, such as a breast augmentation or tummy tuck, schedule a consultation with our on-staff, board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Jason Martin. Please call our office today at 303.388.7380 for a consultation to help you decide which body treatment is right for you.
Sincerely,
Dr. Humes
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)